How to Handle a Broken Dental Crown: Expert Tips

A broken crown or cap can be more than just a cosmetic issue. It can lead to discomfort and further dental complications. If you’re dealing with a damaged crown, it’s important to know how to handle it until you visit the dentist. This blog post will walk you through the causes and symptoms of compromised restorations, especially dental caps. Keep scrolling below to find out how to deal with worn-out or cracked crowns.

Causes of a Broken Dental Crown

Tooth caps or coverings are designed to withstand daily wear and tear, but they can break under certain conditions. The most common causes of a broken tooth cover include:

• Biting down on hard foods: Items like ice, nuts, or hard candy can put unnecessary pressure on your crown, causing it to crack or chip.
• Teeth grinding (Bruxism): Habitual grinding of teeth, especially at night, can stress the cover and lead to damage over time.
• Decay underneath the cover: If decay develops beneath the crown, it weakens its structure and can cause it to break.
• Poor-quality materials: Older caps or those made from low-quality materials are more prone to damage and wear.

Identifying the cause helps your dentist determine the best course of action for the repair or replacement of tooth-shaped covers.

Symptoms of a Broken Crown

Recognizing when your dental cap is damaged is crucial to avoid further complications. Some common signs of a broken or damaged tooth cover include:

• Pain or sensitivity: If you experience sharp pain or sensitivity when chewing or drinking hot or cold beverages, your cap might be compromised.
• Loosening or shifting: If your crown feels loose or shifts in place, it’s a sign that it may no longer be securely attached to the tooth.
• Visible cracks or chips: Sometimes, the break is visible to the naked eye. You may notice a chip, crack, or missing piece on your cap.

If you notice any of these symptoms, seek dental care promptly to avoid further damage or discomfort. To extend the longevity of dental crowns in Calistoga, it’s best to book routine checkups with your dentist. 

What to Do When a Tooth Cover Breaks?

A broken cap doesn’t always mean an immediate trip to the dentist is necessary. However, take proper steps to protect your tooth and prevent additional damage. Here’s how to handle a damaged crown in the interim:

1. Avoid Extreme Temperatures

When your tooth cover is damaged, it’s crucial to avoid extreme temperatures, such as hot coffee or ice-cold drinks. Sudden temperature changes can irritate the exposed tooth and increase pain or sensitivity. Stick to room-temperature foods and beverages until your cap is repaired.

2. Dental Re-Cementation

If the cap has fallen off or is loose but not broken, you can temporarily re-cement it. Use dental cement, which can be purchased over the counter at most drugstores. Carefully follow the instructions on the package to place the toothcap back in place. However, this is only a temporary solution. It’s important to see your dentist in Calistoga as soon as possible to secure the crown properly.

3. Avoid Hard Foods

Until your dental cap is repaired or replaced, avoid eating hard or chewy foods that could further damage or dislodge it completely. Opt for soft foods that won’t put undue stress on your broken cover or the underlying tooth.

4. Use Temporary Dental Fillings

If the cap breaks and exposes the underlying tooth, you can use a temporary filling to cover it. Temporary fillings can prevent food and bacteria from getting into the exposed area and causing an infection. These fillings are also available over the counter and can help reduce discomfort.

While the above steps can provide some relief, it’s essential to see a practitioner as soon as possible for a professional solution. If your dental practitioner recommends a replacement tooth-shaped cover, they will choose a high-quality material to ensure strength, durability, and an aesthetically pleasing finish.

A broken cap doesn’t have to ruin your smile or cause long-term complications. By following the steps outlined above, you can manage the situation until you can see a dentist. At Calistoga Dental Group, we offer regular checkups to identify any signs of damage to your restorations and manage them. Get in touch with us or schedule your appointment to safeguard your dental crowns or handle cracked ones efficiently.